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1964
SO/ Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
67 Customs Street East, Auckland, New Zealand, 1010
Original Property Opened in 1964
Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2026
SO/ Auckland dates back to 1964, originating as the Reserve Bank of New Zealand in the business district of Auckland, New Zealand. This historic hotel was built in the Mid-Century Modern style, a typical design for mid-20th-century banking facilities. Following a redevelopment in 2018, the building was transformed into a boutique hotel, repurposing the former historic banking institution. The historic site is located within the Customs Street Historic Area, a precinct registered with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, which is New Zealand's national heritage agency, responsible for identifying, protecting, and promoting the country's historic places. Guests can enjoy an elevated dining experience at the hotel’s restaurant Harbour Society or explore the energetic waterfront neighborhood in Auckland's downtown district of Britomart.
Discover
- Discover the former Reserve Bank of New Zealand, a building originally designed for high-security financial operations. The building reflects a mid-20th-century focus on security and durability, evident in its reinforced concrete construction. These elements contribute to the distinctive character of the hotel, blending historic foundations with modern aesthetics.
- Discover the carefully planned structural retrofits of the former Reserve Bank, which transformed its original secure framework into modern hospitality spaces. The adaptive reuse of the space maintains the building's underlying form while introducing new functionality. The transformation allows guests to experience spaces that pay homage to its banking past while comfortably accommodating modern use.
- Experience the bank-themed event and meeting areas within the former Reserve Bank's high-security vaults. Those subterranean areas were originally designed to protect financial assets, with heavy concrete construction. These areas have been exquisitely reimagined, now layered with marble, bronze, and gold features that transform its original structure into elegant, memorable spaces.
Explore
- Explore Auckland's historic waterfront districts and scenic harbor areas, located within walking distance of the hotel. Visit the Wynyard Quarter situated next to Viaduct Harbour, a vibrant hub for dining, leisure, and scenic views. Visitors will love its relaxed atmosphere, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and the iconic Wynyard Crossing. Shop the nearby luxury fashion boutique store, WORLD, one of New Zealand's renowned fashion houses.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Waiheke Island from the nearby Auckland Ferry Terminal. The terminal provides direct access to one of New Zealand's most well-known island destinations, offering beaches, wineries, and scenic coastal views. Just a short five-minute walk, guests can easily plan day trips and extend their exploration.
- Explore the nearby Britomart district, a revitalized area combining historic significance with modern retail and dining. The district features a blend of restored 19th-century buildings with modern architecture. Guests can walk to a variety of designer boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues within minutes.
Experience
- Take a stroll along Queen Street to the Sky Tower, a 186m (610 ft) observation tower offering stunning 360° views across Auckland. Visitors can dine at the revolving Orbit 360° Dining restaurant or enjoy panoramic city views from The Lookout and SkyBar.
- Visit Viaduct Harbour and enjoy one of Auckland's most vibrant food scenes, home to over 30 bars and restaurants set along the waterfront marina. Viaduct Harbour is known for its energetic atmosphere, harborside dining, and role as one of the city’s premier destinations for food, nightlife, and waterfront experiences.
- Explore Auckland's sparkling waterfronts, where harbors and beaches frame the city's lifestyle. Visit the bustling markets and creative districts that showcase local designers, crafters, and contemporary culture. As evening falls, Auckland comes alive with its electric nightlife, offering vibrant bars, live music, and dining experiences across the city.
Taste
- Experience elevated dining at SO/ Auckland’s Harbour Society, where contemporary meets a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy an ever-evolving menu of modern flavors and prepared dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. With an emphasis on sustainability and locally sourced produce, Harbour Society offers a dining experience designed to be sophisticated and approachable.
- Guests can indulge in the baked delights of the Parisian-inspired Javalab Café, located at the base of SO/ Auckland. This unique café offers a selection of French-inspired, handcrafted pastries and convenient grab-and-go options paired with organic Hummingbird Coffee. Designed as a relaxed inner-city café, Javalab Café is an ideal spot for a morning coffee, a light lunch, or a pleasant stop while exploring downtown Auckland.
- Discover signature and classic cocktails at HI-SO Rooftop Bar. Located high above the city, the rooftop setting offers stunning views of Auckland. With a stylish atmosphere and carefully crafted cocktails, the HI-SO Rooftop Bar is an ideal location for a social evening or a relaxing moment overlooking the city's skyline.
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Best Available Rate
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States, a member of the International National Trusts Organisation.
